Ways To Celebrate National Random Acts Of Kindness Day On February 17th

Medically reviewed by Nikki Ciletti, M.Ed, LPC
Updated October 31, 2024by BetterHelp Editorial Team

Daily stress can fray nerves and lead to hurried interactions. With National Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) Day coming up in February, people worldwide pause to contribute compassion to someone else’s day. People celebrate random acts of kindness on February 17th each year, recognizing the impactful idea of performing unsolicited good deeds. 

Whether you pay for a stranger's coffee, leave a heartfelt note for a coworker, or offer a smile to passersby, this holiday centers on the power of kindness. There are many ways to show compassion, so exploring these options can be a fun way to make a positive difference in your community.  

Getty/Ridofranz
Increase positivity in your daily life with professional support
Speak with a therapist

What is National Random Acts of Kindness Day? Celebrating with random acts on February 17th

National random acts of kindness day, observed on February 17th, is to encourage individuals to perform kindness day random acts and spread compassion. Studies show that even small gestures of kindness can boost the well-being for the giver and receiver, which may cause a ripple effect promoting empathy in one’s community. Individuals from all walks of life can spread positivity to others without expecting anything in return through these simple actions. The goal of this day, similar to that of World Kindness Day on November 13th, is to inspire and spread kindness within communities through simple acts and ultimately promote a more compassionate society.

This holiday has celebrated random acts of kindness since 1995, when it was first celebrated to promote altruism. It's part of a larger Kindness Week and is promoted by the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation (RAK) across social media and in the real world. What started as a way to brighten someone's day has evolved into a movement to show how vital kindness can be in your daily life.

In addition to the Kind Blog, the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation offers free kindness-oriented printables and media, including random acts of kindness tag cards for kindness, coloring pages, and a kindness award for those who have shown more than just their daily dose of kindness! It also offers lesson plans geared toward grades K-8.

Ideas for participation can vary, as there are no rules for doing random acts that support altruism. Instead, you might focus on the cumulative impact of these small deeds, which can create a chain reaction to positively change someone’s day, week, or entire life. Through this event, you can make kindness a regular, consistent part of your life, not just a special occasion.

Random acts for National Random Acts of Kindness Day

There are so many ways to celebrate world kindness day through minor gestures of compassion — be it something as simple as a smile to a stranger or as impactful as volunteering at a local shelter. Embracing these ideas, kindness becomes a ripple effect, encouraging others to participate and fostering a sense of community and goodwill. Below are 20 kindness ideas to start sharing random acts of kindness. 

Offer compliments to strangers as an act of kindness

Strike up conversations and lend genuine compliments to people you meet. Your kind words may improve their self-esteem. A compliment about someone's outfit or smile can leave a lasting positive impression. However, try to also find ways to compliment someone without basing it on their appearance. Consider trying “You seem so cool!” or “I love your energy.”

Volunteer at a local charity on World Kindness Day

Dedicate time to a local shelter or nonprofit organization. Your hands-on help can significantly impact the lives of those in need. Volunteering allows you to connect with your community, offer a listening ear, learn new skills, and contribute profoundly to causes you care about. In addition, it is beneficial to your mental health and well-being.

Pay it forward in a coffee line

Next time you grab your morning coffee, consider paying for the person behind you. Even the smallest act of compassion on Random Acts of Kindness Day might inspire them to continue the chain. As a result, it may create a ripple effect of generosity and bring a sense of surprise and joy to someone's daily activities.

Write appreciation notes to colleagues

Show kindness at work by letting your coworkers know how much you value their contributions. Consider writing personalized notes of gratitude for this National Random Acts of Kindness Day. It only takes a moment or two to create this token to show your appreciation, and it may boost morale and create a positive work environment.

Donate to a food bank as part of a random act of kindness

Contribute nonperishable foods to a local food bank that can support families facing food insecurity. Your contribution can make a difference in the lives of those struggling to afford necessities, especially during challenging economic times. Consider donating some foods considered “treats” or “snacks", as people who shop at the food bank may not often be able to shop for these items. 
Help a neighbor with chores

Show kindness at home by offering to assist a neighbor with tasks like gardening or cleaning. It may not only support them but also strengthen community bonds. Your support may be particularly valuable for elderly or disabled neighbors who might find these tasks challenging.

Random acts for kindness any day

Give away books to a library
Spread reading by donating books to a public library or a children's literacy program. Your donated books can promote education and a love for reading in children and adults alike. You might also donate books to “little free libraries” on the sides of the streets, offering free books to community members, or ask a teacher you know if they need books for their classroom library. 
Plant a tree in your community
Trees provide environmental benefits and enhance the community space. Planting one serves as a long-lasting act of kindness to nature and your neighbors. The tree can also contribute to local biodiversity and become a landmark for future generations.
Offer to run errands for older adults

Help older adults in your community by running errands for them. Your assistance may ease their daily lives on Random Acts of Kindness Day. Doing so provides practical support and valuable social interactions, which can be vital for their mental health and well-being.

Create care packages for the unhoused 
Assemble bags with essentials like toiletries and snacks to distribute to those experiencing homelessness. These care packages can offer immediate relief and a sense of being cared for, which may be as impactful as the physical items themselves.
Teach a skill or hobby
Discuss your knowledge or hobby, such as teaching knitting, cooking, or computer skills, with others who are interested. Passing on your skills could help others improve their abilities while giving you a sense of fulfillment and purpose.
Getty/AnnaStills

Pass on your favorite book
Pass along a book you've enjoyed to a friend or leave it in a public place for someone else to discover noteworthy stories. This act may introduce others to a new favorite book and expand their knowledge or interests. Another way to pass along your favorite story may be to volunteer to read to your child’s class or to a group at a local library.
Leave uplifting notes in public places
Spread positivity by leaving kind and encouraging messages in public spaces like park benches or bus stops. These unexpected notes may be a bright spot in someone's day, offering comfort, inspiration, or a smile when it's needed most.
Sponsor a child's education
Contribute to the education of a child in need through sponsorship programs, which may provide opportunities for a better future. This support can transform a child's life and offer the resources to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their dreams.
Donate blood
Giving blood is a lifesaving act of kindness that can help those in critical medical situations. Your donation can make a huge difference, potentially saving multiple lives and giving patients in need a chance at recovery and a healthier future.
Cook a meal for someone
Surprise a friend, family member, or neighbor with a home-cooked meal, especially those who might be struggling. A homemade meal is a kind gesture that can comfort and nourish people during challenging moments.
Offer your seat
Give up your seat on public transport to someone who might need it more than you, such as an older adult, a pregnant woman, or those with disabilities. Doing so can show respect and empathy for others. 
Support local artists
Buy from local artists or attend events to support their craft and promote community culture. With your support, local talent can sustain their livelihoods. In addition, sharing a post online with your followers of images of these artists’ work may bring them more web traffic.
Visit a nursing home
Spend time with older adults in nursing homes, offering company, conversation, or assistance with activities. You might bring immense joy and a sense of connection to those who are isolated or lonely, which could improve their quality of life.
Send a thoughtful message to an old friend
Reconnect with an old friend with a thoughtful message or call, showing them they're still in your thoughts. This gesture can rekindle closeness with old friends and remind you of fond memories, which may rebuild bonds that time and distance have worn down.
The impact of being kind on World Kindness Day

Acts of kindness can make a difference, no matter how big or small. Every act of kindness can contribute to a more positive and connected society.

Kindness often begins as a social norm that cultures and societies value, encouraging senseless acts of compassion. When individuals practice random acts of kindness, they can positively influence those around them and their well-being. Biologically, acts of kindness release oxytocin, sometimes called the "love hormone," which promotes social bonding and trust.

Those who support others often experience a boost in their mood, a phenomenon sometimes called the "helper's high." This emotional uplift may reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and build a sense of connection and community. On a broader scale, kindness can create a more supportive environment for all. 

Getty/Edwin Tan
Increase positivity in your daily life with professional support
Speak with a therapist

Kindness and acts of kindness as part of therapy

Therapists might recommend acts of kindness as part of a treatment plan for mental health challenges. It can often be a tool for individuals to build self-esteem and empathy. Practicing kindness in therapy and everyday life may also promote personal growth, especially for those striving to improve their mental health.

Online therapy and continuing random acts of kindness beyond February 17th

If you face barriers to in-person therapy, it may be beneficial to try online platforms like BetterHelp, which offers wide availability right from your web browser. These services can make mental health support more reachable and cost-effective, which may be valuable for those in remote locations or with limited mobility. In addition, online platforms often offer unique resources like group sessions and worksheets you can fill out online, and you can typically connect with your therapist via video chat, phone call, or in-app messaging.
Studies show that online therapy is effective. In one study, 71% of participants found online treatment more effective than in-person therapy in treating depression and anxiety symptoms. A significant number of participants also found online therapy more cost-effective and convenient. 
Takeaway
National Random Acts of Kindness Day inspires individuals to make gestures that could turn an ordinary day to a good day for someone. Whether volunteering time, sharing resources, or giving a genuine compliment, these actions can build a more positive community. Schools, businesses, and other organizations often rally together on this day to remind everyone of the opportunity to spread kindness and create a more empathetic society.
Learn how to cope with challenging events
Speak to a compassionate therapist
The information on this page is not intended to be a substitution for diagnosis, treatment, or informed professional advice. You should not take any action or avoid taking any action without consulting with a qualified mental health professional. For more information, please read our terms of use.
Search
Get the support you need from one of our therapistsGet started